Definition: Number and availability of confidants; feelings of interconnectedness.

Application: Can influence adaptation to stressful events, health behaviors and outcomes by acting as a "stress-buffer."

Positive Psychology & Benefit Finding

Definition: Examines how people develop and sustain characteristics such as hope, wisdom, future mindedness, courage, spirituality, and perseverance in the face of significant stress. Benefit finding refers to the identification of positive life changes that have resulted from major stressors.